The Bay of Plenty Steamers are raring to go ahead of their game against Otago at the Tauranga Domain this weekend.

Despite following close losses to Taranaki and Counties Manukau for their first two matches of the 2016 Mitre 10 Cup, the Steamers are upbeat about Sunday's game.

'The team is looking to put in the full 80-minute performance this weekend,” says Bay of Plenty Rugby Union events coordinator Amanda Thompson.

'Each game as they come in is a challenge, we've just got to ensure the players keep their heads high and keep up the attack.”

This year's Steamers squad features many who have played internationally, including Kelly Haimona, who played in Italy, and Hugh Blake, in Scotland; as well as New Zealand Sevens Regan Ware, Teddy Stanaway and Isaac Te Aute.

For the curtain-raiser of Sunday's match, women's team Bay of Plenty Volcanix takes on Counties Manukau Heat.

'It will be an awesome opportunity to showcase women's rugby,” says Amanda.

The Bay of Plenty Steamers versus Otago match kicks off at 2.35pm on Sunday at the Tauranga Domain. The curtain-raiser starts 12.05pm.